Waiting for Jesus

December 15 – Luke 2 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

I’m blown away with surprise! I wanted to talk about the beautiful nativity or manger scenes I’ve seen, and when I started to research traditions, I found a list of “rules for setting up a manger scene” – who knew i was doing it wrong all these years!!? And more important – i dont think it matters at all. (is that a shepherd in this picture, or is it Gandalf?)

Large or tiny, the tradition of setting up a nativity scene is special. Letting children play with the figures is special. Sitting together and sipping eggnog or something else beside the manger scene is special. Slipping a child’s action figure into the scene is really special.
We put ours under the Christmas tree since our pile of gifts (2) is very small. Putting Jesus there is kind of symbolic – or are the wrapped gifts the symbol?

Where do you set up your manger scene – or where do you go to view that special group of figures? Many of the long term care homes have beautiful scenes – pop in for a look and maybe drop off some treats for the hard working staff while you are there.

prayer: Jesus our Lord. You came as a small helpless baby. Renew our hearts to be child-like, humble and needing no power. Fill us with trust and love. Make us your manger, and stir us to hold your love for all the world. Amen

(please share your thoughts and stories in the comment area at the bottom)

Waiting for Jesus

November 24

scripture: Isaiah 40: 11 He tends his flock like a shepherd:
    He gathers the lambs in his arms
and carries them close to his heart;
    he gently leads those that have young.

This passage reminds me that God is with people who have come upon hard times. Many of our ancestors came to this place of goodness through much hardship. As we gather in comfort , take time to appreciate their perseverance. Pause and reflect on the special things that decorate your home. Is there an especially favorite decoration that would be the one you would choose, if you could only keep one?

This picture shows some of my favorites: a candle snuffer gifted to us; quilted table linen made by my mom; but the item I’m thinking of as most precious is the Christmas candle bridge. It reminds me of my heritage, family gatherings and lighting advent candles. I give thanks for the warm glow of soft light and gentle hearts.

Is there an ornament you would need to keep if you could only keep one? Share the story in the comments please.

Let us pray: Glorious God, your precious son Jesus is our hope and desire for a world bruised and torn apart. Remind us that you are present even in the tough times. Comfort those who’s life is in danger, be with those who are homeless, those who are fleeing from war, those whose lives have been turned upside down by unexpected events. Remind us that in your love all are gathered and comforted. Amen

Waiting for Jesus

November 17

Isaiah 52: 7 How beautiful upon the mountains
    are the feet of the messenger who announces peace,
who brings good news,
    who announces salvation,
    who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”

We are buffeted and battered almost at this time of year by consumerism. It is overwhelming and often falls short of the promise, leaving us empty. However, many family traditions are based on gifts of time together, and care for one another.

Perhaps you have a special Christmas ornament symbolizing this time together which was hand made. What does being hand made mean to you? how do you feel as you bring it out each year. Share your experience in the comment area of this page.

Let us pray: God of all, you know each of us intimately, and love us without judgement. Open our eyes to be your love in the world. Amen.

Waiting for Jesus: Nov 14

November 14, Music

This lively music is from Brazil. It features images of the angel bringing God’s message to Mary, the stable and the awaited birth. if you cannot access the video, paste this link in your search bar. https://youtu.be/LyT4THCudeo?si=iOVzu5zkT4Uu3Iun (It is there in purple ink.) or go to YouTube.com and paste it in their search bar.

Waiting for Jesus: Nov 13

Prayer: Mark 12:41-44

Look with mercy, gracious God,

upon people everywhere who live with injustice, terror, disease, and death as their constant companions.

Rouse us from our complacency

and help us to eliminate cruelty wherever it is found.

Strengthen those who seek equality for all.

Grant that everyone may enjoy a fair porion of the abundance of the earth;

Through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

AMEN